Mead Metals Blog: Copper

Common Uses for Copper

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on December 2, 2022 | 3 min. read

Copper has a long history of decorative and functional purposes. In fact, this easily-identifiable golden/reddish material dates back thousands of years. Currently, copper exists in our homes, vehicles, and electronic devices. Today, I'll cover some unique properties and common uses for this versatile, time-tested alloy. 

How Long Does Copper Last Outside?

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on August 31, 2022 | 2 min. read

As many of us in the industry know, Copper (CU) tends to be one of the most sought-after metals for outdoor use. Copper’s properties make it durable and highly resistant to corrosion and weather, allowing it to stand the test of time for hundreds to thousands of years. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why many manufacturers, architects, and construction professionals rely on copper for outdoor applications.

Copper Alloy 110 for Thermal Conductivity

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on March 8, 2022 | 2 min. read

Copper alloy 110 has the second-highest electrical conductivity of all metals. If you’re wondering which metal is at the top, it’s silver, but you won't find silver wiring in electrical applications. In addition to the fact it’s considerably more expensive, silver lacks copper's other desirable qualities such as ductility and malleability. So, for the majority of applications requiring electrical and thermal conductivity, copper is the go-to option.

A Guide to Copper Alloys: Brass vs. Phosphor Bronze

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on January 5, 2022 | 4 min. read

Copper has been valued by mankind for over 10,000 years. Its unique properties, malleability, ductility, and pleasing aesthetic appearance make it a top candidate for a wide variety of purposes. It also makes friends easily by forming to any number of useful alloys and binary compounds. 

Brass and phosphor bronze are two copper alloys that retain many of copper's valuable qualities while holding unique characteristics of their own. Collectively, copper, brass, and bronze are called the “Red Metals.” You may think of these three when picturing old candelabras, light fixtures, and statues. But due to their similarities, many people may find it difficult to tell these metals apart.

So what’s the difference between copper, brass, and phosphor bronze? The infographic below and the accompanying article will answer all the questions you have about the differences between these metals, what they are used for, and how to identify them.

Why is Copper the Best Choice for Electrical Connectors?

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on November 23, 2021 | 3 min. read

For nearly 200 years, copper has been the material of choice for electrical connectors. Since the invention of the electromagnet and the telegraph in the early 1800s, it’s become even more widespread, especially with the invention of the telephone in 1876.

Today, copper electrical connectors are still used in telecommunications, power generation, distribution, and transmission.

Mead Metals Customer Feature: Engel Diversified Industries

Posted by: Brian Rothstein on January 12, 2021 | 2 min. read

The customer relationships that stand the test of time have so much to teach us. Recently, I had the opportunity to talk to someone who’s worked with Mead Metals to source material for over 28 years—as long as they’ve been with the company. Below, I’ve shared some highlights from this conversation with the VP of Sales and Marketing at Engel Diversified Industries. 

We Are Open: Tackling the Challenge of COVID-19 Head On

Posted by: Brian Rothstein on April 29, 2020 | 1 min. read

Over the past several weeks, the realities of COVID-19 have increasingly occupied our thoughts. The surge in cases across the globe and now here in Minnesota have made us all pause and reflect.  With so much uncertainty, we would like to put your mind at ease.  

The Many Uses of Copper in Creating Art

Posted by: Dani Weinhandl on November 7, 2019 | 2 min. read

Copper is well-known as a versatile material with many applications and uses. Oftentimes, the conversation around copper centers around its many functions in everyday life, namely its electrical and thermal conductivity. Because of this attribute, you’ll find copper wiring and copper connectors in your computers, your cell phone, your garage door opener, and in your appliances. But copper’s usefulness doesn’t end there.